Introduction to online universities in Nigeria
Online universities in Nigeria have become a necessity. There are many online universities today due to increasing Internet penetration (from 26% to over 38% between 2018 and 2022), rising demand for flexible learning, the need for upskilling in a changing job market, and limited capacity in traditional institutions.
According to the National Universities Commission (NUC), Nigeria’s universities accommodate only 700,000 of the two million applicants seeking admission annually, indicating the urgency for alternatives. As a result, Sim Shagaya, founder of the uLesson Group, emphasises the need to leverage the Internet to address these challenges.
This article explores the best online universities in Nigeria, highlighting their uniqueness and addressing key questions like which online university is tuition-free for Nigeria and which is the cheapest.
Key takeaways
- Online universities in Nigeria attract students seeking flexible education.
- Online education allows you to learn at your own pace, anywhere, with your Internet-enabled devices.
- Online universities like UI Distance Learning participate in NYSC, while others like Miva receive letters of exemption.
- Increased Internet access and smartphone usage contribute to the growth of online education.
- Online education is often more affordable, with flexible payment and instalment options.
Understanding online education in Nigeria
Online education, also known as e-learning, is a learning strategy that uses technology to provide participants in different locations with access to education and training courses instead of traditional classroom learning.
The educational method allows you to learn at your pace anywhere. Instead of attending traditional institutions, you can access lessons, videos, assignments, and diverse learning resources on your internet-enabled gadgets. You can take short courses, obtain a diploma, and even complete a full university degree online.
This method of education is often more affordable than traditional education and offers flexible payment and installment options. It also allows students to save on transportation and material costs.
The online education market is projected to reach $143.3 million in 2024, with an annual growth rate of 15.75% from 2024 to 2029, leading to an estimated market size of $297.8 million by 2029.
Accreditation and Recognition
The National Universities Commission (NUC) of Nigeria accredits academic programmes in Nigerian universities, including open or distance learning programmes. It ensures the quality of all the educational programmes offered in Nigerian universities.
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The Commission has an open and distance learning division, and parts of its accreditation requirements include:
- To earn full accreditation status, a program must score at least 70% in the core areas of pedagogy/learning resources, academic learner support, evaluation, and assessment staffing.
- The curriculum for each academic program to be offered by ODL shall align with the approved Minimum Academic Standards (MAS) or Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS).
According to the NUC website, Nigeria has only 28 approved distance learning centres and five accredited open universities.
The open universities are
- National Open University (NOUN)
- Miva Open University, Abuja, FCT
- Iconic Open University, Sokoto, Sokoto State
- West Midland Open University, Ibadan, Oyo State
- Al-Muhibbah Open University, Abuja, FCT
Best university for nursing in Nigeria
Below are some top distance learning centres and open universities offering nursing in Nigeria.
- University of Ibadan, Ibadan Distance Learning Center.
- Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Centre for Distance Learning.
- Distance Learning Center ABU, Zaria.
- Miva Open University, Abuja, FCT
- Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto Centre for Open and Distance Education (CODE)
Best online university for computer science in Nigeria
- Miva Open University, Abuja, FCT
- Nexford University
- National Open University (NOUN)
Best online university for master's degree in Nigeria
- Centre for Distance Learning, Obafemi Awolowo University
- National Open University (NOUN)
Best online university for international students
- Nexford University
- Miva Open University, Abuja, FCT
- National Open University (NOUN)
Best online university for Accounting
- University of Lagos, Akoka Distance Learning Institute.
- National Open University (NOUN)
Best online university for law courses in Nigeria
- National Open University (NOUN)
- Lagos State University Open and Distance Learning and Research Institute
- Centre for Distance Learning, Obafemi Awolowo University
Top online universities in Nigeria
Below are some of the best online universities in Nigeria.
1. National Open University (NOUN)
NOUN is a federal open and distance learning university with 103 study centers across Nigeria. The NUC-accredited university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programs in nine faculties and 37 departments, with over 122 programs in fields such as arts, education, science, and law.
The university uses self-learning and sends study materials by mail, including printed texts, audio and video tapes, CD-ROMs, radio/TV broadcasts, and computer-based resources. The course materials are also accessible through the university's website.
Like all NUC-accredited open distance learning universities in Nigeria, admission requires only a minimum of five O-Level credits, including English language and mathematics.
NOUN’s tuition fees are affordable compared with traditional institutions.
2. Miva Open University
Miva is a degree-awarding open university licensed by the NUC. The university runs various courses under three faculties: the School of Computing, the School of Management and Social Sciences, and the School of Allied Health Sciences. It also offers Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Public Administration programs.
It is considered one of the best online universities for computer science because of its diverse offerings, including cyber security, data science, and software engineering. Tuition fees start at just ₦280,000 per session, with payment options available monthly, per semester, or every academic session.
Miva’s virtual classroom uses a learning management system (LMS) to provide students with course materials, discussions, and assessments. It also enables real-time interaction with teachers. Study breaks are allowed with academic support team approval. Exams are held at centres across Nigeria, with online proctored exams for international students.
Mivaʼs graduates are excluded from one year of NYSC mandatory service but will receive a “Letter of Exclusion.”
3. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) — Distance Learning Centre
ABU offers online degrees in business administration, public administration, computer science, nursing science, international relations, and political science, among others. It also provides postgraduate, master's, and certificate programmes, but unlike NOUN, these have limited options.
Students can choose from four study options: hard copies, e-copies, audio, and video. An online library is accessible, and offline e-libraries are available in Zaria, Lagos, and Abuja. Optional on-campus tutorials are held at the end of each semester, and sessions are streamed live for remote participation.
To qualify for semester exams, students must attain a 75% participation score in all courses. To graduate, they need a minimum GPA of 2.0, completion of core and specialization courses, a defended research project, and an internship.
ABU DLC holds admission screening and semester examinations in Abuja, Gombe, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Zaria. You can select your screening and examination venues.
The DLC also offers affordable tuition fees.
4. Iconic Open University
Iconic Open University is an NUC-accredited private open, distance, and e-learning university in Nigeria. It offers courses in various disciplines, including allied health science, computing science, arts, humanities, and social and management science.
The university conducts online learning through its learning management system. Students can access course materials, participate in discussions, submit assignments, and engage with instructors and classmates through the platform.
Exams and assessments at Iconic Open University vary by course. Exams are held at the nearest learning center, with some programs requiring in-person proctored exams. Assignments and tests are conducted online or through project-based evaluations.
exclusion
The university says graduates will receive an NYSC certificate. The university fees vary depending on courses and locations, but they're still affordable.
5. University of Ibadan Distance Learning
UI distance learning offers courses across various faculties, including arts, education, social sciences, science, health sciences, law, management sciences and technology, and agricultural sciences.
After session registration, you can download your course manual from the university’s portal and begin self-study from anywhere. Online interactions with E-Tutors and coursemates occur on the UIDLC Mobile Class LMS, where all UI-ODeL courses are available.
As a distance learning student at this university, you receive the same certificate as on-campus students upon completing your program, and, unlike others, you are also eligible for the one-year compulsory NYSC service.
6. Nexford University
Nexford University is one of the best online computer science universities. It offers courses in artificial intelligence, data analytics, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, fintech and blockchain, and cybersecurity.
Unlike other universities, Nexford courses consist of modules that include on-demand videos. Faculty host optional live lectures twice a month; you can book appointments with faculty to get individual feedback.
At Nexford, instead of exams, you complete final projects and assignments that are graded. Every course you take follows the same learning sequence. You take six modules and end with a final project.
You can check the university’s tuition fees here.
Caveat: Nexford is an international online university not accredited by the NUC but accredited by The Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), an agency listed by the US Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Factors to consider when choosing an online university
Accreditation and legitimacy
- Ensure the university is accredited by the NUC.
- Verify the recognition of the degree nationally and internationally.
Program offerings
- Assess the availability of desired courses and specialisations.
- Check for flexibility in course selection and progression.
Tuition and financial considerations
- Compare tuition fees across institutions.
- Explore scholarship opportunities and financial aid options.
Student support services
- Evaluate access to academic advisors, counselling, and career services.
- Look for resources like online libraries and study materials.
Technology and learning platforms
- Examine the usability and reliability of the online learning platform.
- Ensure access to recorded lectures, discussion forums, and interactive tools.
FAQs about online universities in Nigeria
Are online degrees recognized in Nigeria?
- Yes, if obtained from NUC-accredited institutions, online degrees are recognized.
Can I participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with an online degree?
- Graduates from accredited online programs are eligible for NYSC. While some participate in the one-year NYSC program, like the UI distance learning, others receive letters of exemption.
What is the cost of online education in Nigeria?
- Costs vary; comparing tuition fees and considering additional expenses is essential.
How do I apply for an online program?
- Visit the university's official website, complete the application form, and submit the required documents.
Conclusion
Summary of top online universities
- National Open University (NOUN) is a NUC-accredited institution with 103 study centers across Nigeria. It offers affordable self-learning through study materials sent by mail and online.
- Miva Open University is one of the best online universities for computer science. It offers flexible payment options and real-time interactions through an LMS.
- Ahmadu Bello University’s Distance Learning Centre provides multiple study formats and requires 75% participation for exams.
- Iconic Open University also offers online learning and NYSC exclusion letters.
- University of Ibadan Distance Learning provides online materials and interactions, awarding the same certificate as on-campus students and eligible for NYSC.
- Nexford University majorly offers computer science programmes, including AI and cybersecurity. It prefers projects over exams.
Final thoughts on choosing the right online university
Choosing the right online university requires thorough research and ensuring it meets your personal and professional goals. For instance, if your choice includes participating in NYSC's one-year mandatory service, you should avoid online universities that only offer exclusion letters or do not even offer any.
Also, if you are afraid of exams, Nexford University is your best choice, as this article has highlighted.
